Product Description for Tamahagane Integral Stag Utility (3-3/4 in)

Maker: Bill Burke, M.S. (click to see more by this maker)Item num: 90315*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***Blade length: 3.75 in.Total length: 7.20 in.Blade width: 0.92 in.Blade thickness: 0.12 in.Item weight: 4.90 oz.Shipment weight: 5.6 oz.Blade: Tamahagane created by Bill Burke forged around a 52100 carbon steel coreBolster: IntegralHandle: Sculpted stag scales set on a full, distal tapered tangSheath: Pouch style leather sheathDescription: Bill Burke, who was honored as a Mastersmith in June 2008, is known for creating some of the best and highest performance knives that can be found anywhere. His heat treatment technique, combined with his choice of steel, results in edge holding that is far beyond other knives. Bill's work is truly exceptional, as is demonstrated in this Don Fogg-inspired integral utility. It is perfect for use out in the field or in the kitchen, but would be equally at home in a cherished collection. It is the perfect length for detail-oriented tasks, from removing the tops from strawberries and tomatoes to the eyes from potatoes.
An integral knife -- meaning one which has one solid piece of steel from tip, to bolster and to the pommel -- is much harder to forge and grind than a standard pinned knife. It is much more technically demanding and time consuming but it is knifemaking at its finest.
This 3-3/4 inch utility knife was pre-tested for edge flex and cutting ability before assembly. A particularly small grain structure is created by a heat treatment process incorporating low temperature forging, a triple quench, and a triple temper. This heat treatment follows the formulas developed in conjunction with Mastersmith Ed Fowler and ensures exceptional edge holding.
Bill combined his own tamahagane with 52100 to create this high performance knife. Bill began by making Tamahagane (Jewel Steel) using a technique developed over 700 years ago in Japan. Magnetite is melted and impurities slowly removed to create a perfect steel. He then forged this around a 52100 carbon steel core. The result is a knife with tremendous visual impact, combined with a keen, long lasting edge.The handle is formed from sculpted stag antler. The handle scales are carved to nestle in the hand, with full tang construction for strength and durability. The stag is highly polished where Bill has sculpted it to fit the tang, yet some of the stag's unique texture has been left to aid grippiness. The overall effect, combined with the integral construction is subtle, clever and elegant. A perfect balance makes this little utility knife a joy to use.Availability: Not currently available